EP0809215B1 - Interchangeable postage computer module and method for data transmission - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to an exchangeable postage computer module according to the type specified in claim 1 and a corresponding method for data transmission between postage computer module and base unit, according to the in Preamble of claim 10 specified type.

Field of application for such a postage computer module are especially postage scales and franking machines or similar or billing basic devices.

Several methods are already known, postage calculation tables interchangeable in postage calculating scales or to make it reloadable. So in US 4,506,330 one in a PROM on a removable circuit board Stored postage table with switches for Addressing switchover described.

In US 3,635,297 a similar one is stored in ROMs, exchangeable postage memory table described. This Table is on a parallel bus to the fast one Allow processor access to them.

US 4,325,440 describes a method for franking of mail pieces and a multiprocessor system that a system processor for postage calculation and contains further subsystem processors, one being a subsystem processor with a scale, being a subsystem processor with a user interface and being one for a postage print with certain subsystem processor is connected to a postage printer. The multiprocessor system is not flexible on other devices used.

US 4,718,506 describes a postage calculator for a postage scale. The postage calculator is with one exchangeable postage storage and is also not flexible in combination with others or can be used on other devices.

US 5 262 939 describes a postage meter Multicarrier function. But here too is the postage calculator integrated part of a complete Weighing and computing system and not flexible in Combination with other or on other devices used.

From US 5,117,364 is a mail carrier management system with a scale for packages to be shipped, one connected computer and input means known, wherein the computer has removable memory for Save a database for tariff tables of the individual Contains mail carrier with postage fee data. The Process for determining the cheapest carrier is only interrupted by operator input. The system can, however, add new postage calculation structures some postal carriers are not flexible react.

EP 0 099 666 B1 also describes a system with a fixed processor and interchangeable Fee table storage works.

Such solutions with a conventional postage structure are only flexible regarding the table size. In case of Tariff extensions or changes are simply the Read-only memory with the postage rate table against one exchanged those with more storage capacity. Of The disadvantage is that such replaceable Read-only memory from the processor in the base unit a permanently stored program can be evaluated. Such solutions are based on conventional postage structure elements of the program limited and opposite new postage structure elements inflexible. Another Disadvantage when accessing the read-only memory with an extensive postage rate table consists of that sufficient speed to access the Use of an expensive interface requires which must have a large number of PINs.

From a medium to high number of to mailing letters or other mail items are in franking machines for franking the Postal items used. A franking machine is with one Control unit, storage means, an input means, a MODEM or other data receiving means, one I / O control means, a display means and one Printer equipped, being in the storage means a prepaid credit value is saved in a non-volatile manner is present. As a rule, the control unit is responsible CPU also managing the monetary data and the Postage meter is with suitable security means Mistake. After deducting the determined postage from The aforementioned credit value prints a fixed one Print head columns the franking imprint at the same time Letter transport. This is a print width of about 1 inch.

US 4 802 218 primarily describes methods for chip card-based billing of a franking system, however also contains the proposal for another chip card, on which the current postage rate table is saved is. This postal rate table is created by the Franking system used to determine the postage value. It turns out to be the bottleneck for data transmission here too the serial interface to the chip card the postage rate table.

There are procedures to avoid this disadvantage suitable, which is not only immediately during the Postage calculation to the external read-only memory access, but in advance the current postage rate table Copy or load into an internal memory area. A charging plug for such a method is from the EP 0 560 717 A2 for a franking machine is known which includes an internal postage calculator. The built in the internal postage calculator Tariff memory can be added later by the user be updated by using a charging plug on the outside the new postage table is inserted, its content after actuation of command input means in the internal computer memory is copied. The user must itself for loading, i.e. for the topicality of the internal table data. A flexibility towards future changes is only in the extent to which the table size is given internal storage space was previously scheduled for this.

The postage fee tables are updated from time to time Postal carrier updated. Usually be there tariffs for certain transport services increased. With a charging plug or replacement of read-only memories to consider all possible changes in the future, will become increasingly difficult in the future, because there is no flexibility regarding new ones Postage calculation structures.

As long as franking machines only for billing with one Carrier (previously the national postal agency) provided is the expiration of the old postage fee tables and the need to reload one a new table for the manufacturer and the customer process still to be surveyed, especially if the Postage structures are retained. Then you can too a data center the transmission of a current Initiate table, as known from DE 28 03 982 has become. The postage calculation devices of all customers but must with a modem or similar Be equipped for transmission and for the transmission the update data is always ready to receive being held. Structural changes in the Calculation cannot be considered. On Such a procedure can also not be individual for everyone Customers a special set of suitable carriers load into his postage calculator.

Another method is in US 5 490 077 for a Franking machine has been described in detail, which automatically for the topicality of the internally stored Table data each time the franking machine is switched on by loading from external storage in provides a means of transmission. Each requires Transmission means specific receiving or input means. In the case of a mobile radio variant, mobile radio reception / transmission means are a modem for an ISDN variant and in the case of a chip card variant, a chip card reading unit required.

With all of these loading or copying methods is admittedly no speed at data access during the Charging more necessary, but such solutions are always still too inflexible regarding a tariff change, which is a much larger rate table for The consequence is and does not permit adaptation to a new one Postage calculation structure.

One of the remaining improvements to the franking machines lies in creating flexibility in terms of billing against various Carriers. It is an inexpensive service from the applicable tariff structures of various Select carrier. But is the franking machine for billing against a variety set up by different carriers, one must also special solution can be created so that always for valid postage fee table for the selected carrier is available. requirement of it is planning enough storage space for the different carrier-related tariffs. Now is but conceivable that new regional, national or international private carriers completely different postage structures have that are not shown in the tables leave that unchanged old interpretation program from this could determine the postage value. Fundamentally new postage calculation structures of the Tariffs could be national postal agencies as well as private ones Determine carrier. So when updating it should the interpretation program can also be exchanged, but what about security concerns especially with franking machines bumps, because one from the franking machine computer Executed program code must always according to special Security criteria regarding data manipulation security the one stored in the franking machine monetary data are formed. The fed Program parts are allowed to protect against data manipulation do not decrease. From the perspective of Carrier presents every possibility of the user reload a program code outside into the franking machine an unacceptable security risk because it cannot be ruled out that this way targeted software for the purpose of manipulating the intentions of counterfeit money becomes. But even if, from the above Procedure deviating, a service technician the new program parts (installation program) install, result in the cost also basic difficulties for a such installation procedure. The one to map future ones Postage calculation structures required Space is required in the internal memory area hard to plan ahead, which means that the above Installation procedures may also be possible can fail.

The invention has for its object the disadvantages the state of the art to eliminate and use an interface as well as a small one to be transmitted Amount of data in an arrangement the postage fees to investigate.

The solution is said to be a slight modification to the carrier and / or country-specific postage structure allow without opening the base machine or one To have to commission service technicians. In particular is to be used in the case of new types that may appear later Postage calculation structures the postage calculation type easily convertible or expandable.

In addition, there is a more flexible method for data transmission for processing for postage calculation so continue to develop that equipment, such as Postage scales or franking machines if necessary in Connection with scales, on future services various private mail carriers are expandable, so that the postage value according to currently valid tariffs can be calculated.

These tasks are accomplished with the features of claims 1 or 10 solved.

A common cause of the above Disadvantages is that the problem of possible later changes in postal tariffs so far through the exchange or reloading a fee schedule has been resolved. The real one Fees are calculated by the existing program of the corresponding basic device (franking machine or postage scale) integrated Postage calculator by evaluating the reloaded or externally attached postage table. Because the evaluating The program and the computer cannot be changed from the outside is only a predetermined class of postage rate changes rechargeable. If the structure is on fundamental changes in unforeseen ways can also the exchange of the fixed interpretation program be required so that a technician deployment all installed systems is required. in this connection may be extensive changes required because of the hardware equipment of the reloadability for all times the postage tables is limited, especially with regard to of the storage space for recording the fee table or the addressability and the computing speed. It would be easily conceivable that future postage tables due to their complexity for these reasons not adequately processed by the old computer can be. This applies to an even greater extent if the tariffs of several entering the market in the future Carrier taken into account in the postage calculation should be. An oversizing of the hardware a franking machine or a postage meter on one A sufficiently future-proof level would, however, Represent compromise already at the time of Device production costs money, but only from a few Users or may never be needed.

The invention is based on the idea, not only Make the postage tables interchangeable by the customer, but also the postage calculator by the customer to be exchanged with.

The formation of the postage fee and calculation module takes place according to the invention as one on a standard interface attachable or inside a Base device can be used in a location accessible to the customer interchangeable facility for postage calculation, which subsequently interchangeable postage computer module is called. This interchangeable postage calculator module contains essential parts of a complete postage calculator, in particular a central processing unit (CPU) and a memory for postage information as well a housing.

It is useful to have the postage calculator module in one To accommodate a dongle-type housing.

The interface is called a standardized serial Interface executed. It is envisaged that Postage computer module via the interface connector to supply at least one operating voltage.

In the case of a postage calculation structure change such a postage computer module, such as a dongle, as whole be exchanged by the user. As The basic device is suitable for a franking machine or postage meter.

The postage computer module provides at least one data Carrier to change the display in the base unit service requests made from inputs to a carrier and for processing of the data supplied in the basic device.

The postage computer module receives from the computer of the franking machine and / or the postage scale via the interface Information about weight and additional information of the User pressed for shipping, especially via Keys. From this information, the interchangeable postage calculator the postage value and sends this in connection with other data about a Interface to the requesting computer in the basic device back.

The exchangeable postage computer module can be used as a single-chip computer or also as a processing unit CPU separate storage elements.

It is advantageous that the program for determining postage rely on postage tables of the conventional type can, but is not limited to, if in Postage computation module also located by the customer is exchanged with. As a result, postage structure elements, that are difficult to depict in postage tables are, in a simple manner by appropriate program flow predictable, which gives advantages in terms of Memory requirements and processing speed result. This is particularly advantageous if a new carrier offer a service for what Fees of a different or different kind and Way to be determined. Furthermore, in the case of complex postage calculation changes of the traditional Mail carrier advantageous. Advantages also arise with the production of country variants. The operating program there is no need to touch in the base machine, if a different country-specific calculation structure it is asked for.

The protocol is appropriately agreed so that the Use of the exchangeable postage calculator described equally as an accessory to a scale as well is possible as an additional device to a franking machine. This makes an entire device family optional equip with the postage calculation function.

It is intended to include some of the values received submit back. These values can vary in individual cases be changed by the postage computer module to the requesting Device and thus to signal the user that the originally selected form of dispatch for reasons the tariff structure is inadmissible or inappropriate. It is possible the user at the same time an expedient to signal possible form of dispatch.

There are some other commands in the protocol to be agreed, for example to query the Version number of the exchangeable postage computer module or information to the exchangeable postage computer module to transmit over the requesting system so different program sequences can be controlled can, if the exchangeable postage computer module different systems should be operated.

A variant is provided in which the housing of the postage computer module equipped with two interfaces is to connect the computer to the serial cable between franking machine and one that To be able to insert weight-determining scales. in this connection are different embodiments for the signal flow possible: The signal flow can be via the second with the Libra coupled interface can be designed that the balance information directly from the postage computer module is used to determine postage. With the first Interface with which the postage computer module to the Postage meter is connected, only the determined postage value transferred. On the other hand, too conceivable that the balance information first on the Interfaces of the postage computer module to the franking machine is forwarded, and from there to one other time than block with the information about the User input for postage calculation back to the Postage calculator module goes. Thirdly, it is conceivable that the Postage calculator through additional hardware otherwise continuous connection between franking machine and Libra interrupts when it leaves the Data stream recognizes that the current block of information is intended for him, or then interrupts, if the postage calculator itself provides information the franking machine is to be sent.

It is conceivable that the postage calculator on the one Interface read information flow of the scale converted and only then to the franking machine retransmits. This results in the special Advantage of adding scales with a different protocol to be able to connect existing systems without entering the Having to intervene with the franking machine, for example to do that Exchange the scale communication program.

It is expedient that the franking machine automatically the presence of the interchangeable postage calculator recognizes to the customer the calculation function accordingly offer or the desired postage from To query customers.

It is planned to use the serial interface interchangeable postage computer module if necessary program or load data.

Figur 1,

Ansicht des steckbaren Portorechnermoduls,

Figur 2,

Innenansicht des steckbaren Portorechnermoduls nach einer ersten Variante,

Figur 3,

Innenansicht des steckbaren Portorechnermoduls nach einer zweiten Variante,

Figur 4,

steckbares Portorechnermodul für eine Portowaage,

Figur 5,

steckbares Portorechnermodul für eine Frankiermaschine, nach einer ersten Schnittstellenverschaltungsvariante,

Figur 6,

steckbares Portorechnermodul für eine Frankiermaschine, nach einer zweiten Schnittstellenverschaltungsvariante,

Figur 7a,

Flußdiagramm für den Datenaustausch eines steckbaren Portorechner moduls zur Ermittlung des Portowertes für eine Portowaage oder eine Frankiermaschine,

Figur 7b,

Flußdiagramm für den Datenaustausch eines steckbaren Portorechnermoduls nach einer Subvariante,

Figur 8,

Datensatz für den Informationsfluß von der Frankiermaschine zum auswechselbaren Portorechnermodul,

Figur 9,

Datensatz für den Informationsfluß vom externen Portorechnermodul zur Frankiermaschine,

Figur 10,

zusätzlicher Datensatz für den Informationsfluß von der Frankiermaschine zum auswechselbaren Portorechnermodul,

Figur 11,

zusätzlicher Datensatz für den Informationsfluß vom auswechselbaren Portorechnermodul zur Frankiermaschine.

Advantageous developments of the invention are characterized in the subclaims or are shown below together with the description of the preferred embodiment of the invention with reference to the figures. Show it:

Figure 1,

View of the pluggable postage computer module,

Figure 2,

Interior view of the pluggable postage computer module according to a first variant,

Figure 3,

Interior view of the pluggable postage computer module according to a second variant,

Figure 4,

plug-in postage computer module for a postage scale,

Figure 5,

plug-in postage computer module for a franking machine, according to a first interface connection variant,

Figure 6,

pluggable postage computer module for a franking machine, according to a second interface connection variant,

Figure 7a,

Flow chart for the data exchange of a plug-in postage computer module for determining the postage value for a postage scale or a franking machine,

Figure 7b,

Flow chart for the data exchange of a pluggable postage computer module according to a sub-variant,

Figure 8,

Data record for the flow of information from the franking machine to the exchangeable postage computer module,

Figure 9,

Data record for the flow of information from the external postage computer module to the franking machine,

Figure 10,

additional data record for the flow of information from the franking machine to the exchangeable postage computer module,

Figure 11,

Additional data record for the flow of information from the exchangeable postage computer module to the franking machine.

In Figure 1 is a view of the pluggable Postage fee and calculation module 50 with one Security housing 51 shown, which one serial interface, for example a V24 interface 52 has.

The interior view shown in FIG. 2 conveys an impression of an inexpensive setup with a single-chip computer 53 on a circuit board 56. In addition, the single-chip computer 53 with a Additional module 55 to be connected to clock generation.

To prevent an unauthorized replica, the Postage calculator of the exchangeable postage calculator module also as an OTP processor (ONE TIME PROGRAMMABLE) be trained. Such an OTP processor has one internal volatile RAM iRAM and internal non-volatile memory iROM or iEPROM, where the latter during manufacture or afterwards is programmed accordingly for the customer.

All crucial parts of the program are internal Program memory iROM saved. After programming of the OTP, the program, including the Interface program, can no longer be read out.

An 8051 processor, for example, can be used as the OTP a 16 kbyte on-chip EPROM as internal program memory be used.

Another OTP type has an additional writable internal non-volatile memory E ² PROM, into which carrier-specific data (for example tariff table data) can be loaded via the interface.

In contrast, the interior view shown in Figure 3 shows a somewhat more complex variant with the production Processing unit (CPU) 54, non-volatile memory 57 and an additional module 55. The latter can one Include clock generator module and, if necessary, others Include assemblies used to operate the serial Interface (V24 interface) are required.

A PROM, EPROM, E ² PROM, FLASH-MEMORY or battery-backed CMOS-RAM can be used as the non-volatile memory 57.

• Liefern von Daten mindestens eines Beförderers vom auswechselbaren Portorechnermodul zur Anzeigeänderung im Basisgerät aufgrund von Benutzereingaben betreff gestellter Dienstleistungsanforderungen an einen Beförderer und zur Verarbeitung der gelieferten Daten im Basisgerät,
• Empfangen von Gewichtsdaten und von Versanddaten für ein Poststück,
• Portowertberechnung aufgrund der Portotariftabellendaten und Berechnungsstruktur des gewünschten Beförderers im auswechselbaren Portorechnermodul und
• Liefern von den Portowert einschließenden Daten mindestens eines Beförderers vom auswechselbaren Portorechnermodul zum befördererbezogenen Verarbeiten der gelieferten Daten im Basisgerät.

The internal processing unit CPU of the exchangeable postage computer module is programmed by a calculation program stored in the non-volatile memory for:

• Delivering data of at least one carrier from the exchangeable postage computer module to a carrier in order to change the display based on user input relating to service requests and for processing the data supplied in the base unit,
• Receiving weight data and shipping data for a mail item,
• Postage value calculation based on the postage tariff table data and calculation structure of the desired carrier in the exchangeable postage calculator module and
• Delivery of data including the postage value of at least one carrier from the exchangeable postage computer module for the carrier-related processing of the delivered data in the base unit.

FIG. 4 shows an interface connection with pluggable postage fee and calculation module for one Postage scale with its one serial interface 61 with the one serial interface 41 of the franking machine 40 is connected. A well-known intelligent Postage scale 60i is already for postage calculation for a single public postal carrier (postal authority) intended. Under the title: Procedure for Data entry in a scale is not in one Pre-published European application 95250313.4 already an extension to a set of carriers has been proposed, taking from the aforementioned sentence the desired carrier can be selected. Each Carrier is a carrier identification number (CIN) assigned. The calculated Porto and the CIN are converted from postage to Franking machine transmitted. The postage scale contains an electrically programmable non-volatile Storage for the tariff table data. franking machine and postage scales are for the same location and initialized same set of carriers. Of the Postage scales become verification data for the franking machine transmitted, for checking in the franking machine, whether the tariff table data is still up to date. Otherwise, an automatic update be performed.

A postage scale 60i further developed according to the invention is with two serial interfaces 61 and 62 and with equipped with an internal processor that programs is the data including weight data the interchangeable postage calculator module 50 for postage calculation to transmit. Such data is special via the keyboard of the intelligent postage scale 60i entered type of shipment, such as Letter, parcel, printed matter, goods shipment, book shipment and other and / or the entered form of dispatch, such as express, registered mail, return receipt, Airmail and other and / or destination zone data, Domestic, foreign, zip code, ZIP TO ZONE and, if applicable, mail piece thickness, mail piece format as well as election prints, such as registered mail and other dates. Such an intelligent postage scale 60i also has a corresponding display. For example can also from the interchangeable postage computer module 50 delivered characters or texts can be displayed. The to the serial interface 62 of the portage scale 60i with its serial interface 52 interchangeable postage computer module 50 enables under Under certain circumstances, a choice between further shipping dates, which with the only public postal carrier (Postal authority) are not provided. The processor of the Postage scale 60i is programmed, the interchangeable Postage calculator module after such - as this is based on the Figure 10 will be explained - further shipping data to query this after actuating a suitable one Bring actuating means to the display, for example to make a selection using the keyboard of the postage scale to enable. The calculated postage is then over the postage balance 60i is transmitted to the franking machine 40. Such a variant with intelligent postage scale 60i is used to expand the postage calculation to at least one new mail carrier or to Adaptation to a new calculation structure using the exchangeable postage computer module 50.

After an interface connection according to FIG. 5 can a pluggable postage fee and calculation module also to a free interface 42 of a franking machine be put. In this first variant is a scale 60 on a second interface of the Franking machine 40 inserted to weight data to transfer. The advantage is a cheaper one Balance 60 compared to a postage balance 60i, because this Scale 60 does not need internally for postage calculation and otherwise not for entering and displaying (all) shipping data to be trained.

Alternatively, it is also in a - not shown - Version with a mechanical scale and - in contrast to the circuit of Figure 5 - without Interface connection from the scale to Postage meter provided that weight and Shipping data from one and the same device, namely the Franking machine to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 are transmitted. The mechanical Weight readings must then be entered via the Franking machine keyboard manually into the franking machine can be entered.

FIG. 6 shows one that can be plugged in like a dongle trained, postage computer module for a franking machine, according to a second variant, the franking machine not enough free interfaces features. This second variant of the interface connection for a franking machine and for at least one with double interfaces 52 and 58 provided postage computer module 50, is for interface expansion advantageous if, for example, the Postage meter 40 with only a single serial Interface 42 is equipped. It is intended that the interchangeable postage computer module 50 with its serial interface 52 to the serial interface 42 of the franking machine 40 is inserted. The exchangeable postage computer module 50 according to the invention here a second interface 58 is preferred for the 60i postage scale and a corresponding adapter function with protocol conversion.

The display of the shipping data options will either via the display unit of the scale or Franking machine realized.

In the event that the postage scale 60i is the basic device forms (Figure 4) the shipping data options displayed on the display unit of the postage scale 60i. To adapt to new postage calculation structures or other carriers will be one belonging to the type of scale modified operating instructions and a new associated one Balance keyboard membrane supplied by the manufacturer. Instead of the balance keyboard foil depending on the type of balance individual stickers for special function keys of the Scales provided. Balance keyboard foil or sticker can be omitted if the keys of the scale keyboard are marked neutrally, the marks in of the operating instructions are listed and explained. The customization of the display can vary depending on the display type different kind.

a) Anzeigen von aufgelisteten oder von einzelnen Befehlscode in Verbindung mit erläuternden Klartexten in der zugehörigen Bedienungsanleitung, oder

b) Anzeigen von Texten, die aus dem auswechselbaren Portorechnermodul 50 geliefert werden (Datensatz in Fig. 11).

An adaptation of the user interface is basically implemented on the output side by:

a) displaying listed or individual command codes in connection with explanatory plain texts in the associated operating instructions, or

b) Displaying texts which are delivered from the exchangeable postage computer module 50 (data record in FIG. 11).

The variant a) also enables simple Display units, such as a ten-digit number Seven segment display a communication with the User. The over the ten-digit seven-segment display displayed characters are used as command code based on the aforementioned modified operating instructions identified by the user and can by means of Key operation can be changed or acknowledged.

But if the franking machine is the basic device, it can Display of shipping data options via the display unit the franking machine also in the aforementioned Way to be realized.

An improvement to the user interface is included an alphanumeric suitable for text display Display unit or with a graphic display achieved. Linking to an existing menu structure can be a special one from the exchangeable postage computer module 50 delivered menu parts are shown, being records over the communication link between the exchangeable postage computer module and Franking machine can be exchanged, which is based on the Figures 10 and 11 are explained in more detail. The processor the franking machine 40 is programmed, such to display further shipping data in order to the keyboard of the franking machine 40 to make a selection enable.

The selection of shipping data becomes interchangeable Postage calculator module 50 transmitted. The calculated postage value is then replaced by the exchangeable postage computer module 50 transmitted to the franking machine 40. The scale 60 only delivers those measured on the item Weight data.

If the postage scale 60i or scale 60 in FIGS until 6 is removed, there are other alternatives Versions. In one - in the figures 4 to 6 not shown - variant is also provided that weight and shipping data of one and the same device to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 are transmitted. For example Weight data entered manually or under certain circumstances in a device such as personal computer 70 or Franking machine 40, what the Postage scales 60i and scales 60 are no longer necessary. To enter the Weight data can also be another peripheral Device should be provided.

An automatic franking machine can be advantageous be connected to a personal computer, via which all entries are made. to Input of the weight data by the personal computer 70 the weight data are based on the number of insoles, the average deposit weight, the type of packaging and the weight of the packaging material. On suitable system, but without the invention interchangeable postage calculation module, is under the Title: Procedure for determining the cheapest carrier and mail processing system with personal computer and with a method for data processing, in the unpublished German application 196 17 557.7 have been explained in more detail.

The franking machine is in another advantageous variant with a comfortable user interface (User interface) for all inputs and displays fitted. A suitable system, but without that exchangeable postage calculation module according to the invention, is entitled: Procedure and arrangement for Data processing in a mail processing system with a franking machine, in the unpublished German application 196 17 476.7 closer have been explained. In the latter case, the result is Application of the invention, i.e. with the invention interchangeable postage calculation module an interface connection, like that in principle in the invention Interface circuit shown in Figure 5 without the postage scale. Instead of the scales is a remote personal computer 70 to the serial Interface connected.

• Schritt 600, Selektieren der seriellen Schnittstelle zum auswechselbaren Portorechnermodul 50,
• Schritt 610, Übermittlung von Gewichtsdaten einschließenden Daten an den auswechselbaren Portorechnermodul 50, der einen Portogebühren- und Berechnungsmodul enthält und der an irgendeines der vorgenannte Geräte bzw. zwischen zwei der vorgenannten Geräte geschaltet ist,
• Schritt 620, Übermittlung der Versanddaten an den auswechselbaren Portorechnermodul 50, wobei die Versanddaten die Versandart und die Versandform einschließen und weitere Daten umfassen können,
• Schritt 630, Portoberechnung im auswechselbaren Portorechnermodul 50 nach aktuellem Tarif und
• Schritt 640, Senden von Portowert, Versanddaten und Zusatzdaten an die Frankiermaschine 40.

FIG. 7a shows a flowchart for the data exchange of a plug-in postage fee and calculation module with further devices, preferably for determining the postage value for a postage meter or a franking machine. Various devices that are related to one another, such as franking machine 40, balance 60 or personal computer 70, are conceivable, which carry out the following steps:

• Step 600, selection of the serial interface to the exchangeable postage computer module 50,
• Step 610, transmission of data including weight data to the exchangeable postage calculator module 50, which contains a postage fee and calculation module and which is connected to any of the aforementioned devices or between two of the aforementioned devices,
• Step 620, transmission of the shipping data to the exchangeable postage computer module 50, wherein the shipping data can include the shipping type and the shipping form and can include further data,
• Step 630, postage calculation in the exchangeable postage computer module 50 according to the current tariff and
• Step 640, sending postage value, shipping data and additional data to the franking machine 40.

The connection of the different devices 40, 60 and / or 70 to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 basically takes place according to one of the figures in FIGS. 5 or 6 variant shown. It is in one Design variant executed that weight and Shipping data from different devices 40, 60 and / or 70 to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 be transmitted. To the second step 620, the above mentioned process steps are then corresponding Sub-process steps for the transmission of the shipping data from different devices to that to provide interchangeable postage computer module 50.

The flow chart explained with reference to FIG. 7a forms on the one hand a solution for the - in Figures 4 and 5 shown - variants and on the other hand this is Flowchart for an interchangeable postage calculator module also a first solution to the - shown in Figure 6 - second variant for a franking machine with pluggable postage fee and calculation module at one serial interface. So it is possible that the Scale 60 only transmits the weight value and in exchangeable postage calculator module the postage calculation he follows. The other selected shipping dates and the The CIN identifier of the selected mail carrier is given by the franking machine for the exchangeable postage computer module transmitted.

FIG. 7b shows a sub-variant of a flow chart for data exchange of a pluggable Postage fee and calculation module shown. This Sub-variant specifically meets the interface interconnection according to the variant shown in FIG. 6 to. Another step 600 is to select the Interface provided, but not shown.

In the first sub-step 611, the scale 60i delivers this current weight on the exchangeable postage computer module 50, analogous to step 610 explained above Transmission of the weight data to the interchangeable Postage calculator module 50. After this first sub-step 611 with a signal flow from the scale 60 to interchangeable postage computer module 50 is required the weight information is converted and then in the second Sub-step 612 transmitted to the franking machine. After this transmission of the weight data to the Postage meter machine takes place in the third sub-step 613 Collect the data in the franking machine. The franking machine initially saves the weight data between up to the user the type of dispatch, form et al Entered data, for example CIN. The Postage meter represents one - in FIG. 8 shown - data record with the addition of shipping data and other data together. The second step 620 is specified for sub-step 621 such that from the franking machine 40 to the interchangeable Postage computer module 50 the aforementioned data record is transmitted. The third step 630 takes place again the postage calculation by the interchangeable Postage calculator module located postage and Calculation module. Then step 640 carried out, whereby by the exchangeable postage computer module 50 a data record to the franking machine 40 is transmitted, which is more closely based on FIG is explained.

FIG. 8 shows a data record for the information flow from the franking machine to the interchangeable one Postage calculator shown, such as in Step 621 is transmitted. According to the invention An identifier CIN for the selected Post carrier sent. The record closes at least the mail piece weight and selected shipping parameters on. The number of shipping parameters is variable. In order to communicate this number, one is required in advance Information about the length of the parameter list of the Submitted record. If necessary, more Data such as dimensions of the mail item transmitted. Contribute to the success of the transmission further data record components at. The record will opened with a start sequence and with a End sequence completed. For data security the record also includes a checksum (Checksum) about essential data of the data set.

FIG. 9 shows a data record for the information flow from exchangeable postage calculator to Franking machine shown. According to the invention An identifier CIN for the selected Post carrier and an identifier for the list type or Type of postage fee and calculation module transmitted. The record closes at least that determined postage value and, if applicable, the position for the decimal point. The data record is with a Start sequence opened and with an end sequence completed. For data security purposes, the Data set again a check sum (checksum) about essential data of the data set as well as a Information about the length of the parameter list of the Record. The data set contains an additional one Information about the data record component Error status. Here, for example, a "0" cannot Error, but "1" an error due to changed Form of dispatch mean. The error "2" will displayed if a calculation is not possible. On selected by an incorrectly transmitted CIN unknown carrier is replaced by error "10" communicated, etc.

An additional data record for the Flow of information from the franking machine to exchangeable postage calculator shown, which for Preparation of a selection of the CIN, of shipping data and other data expires. According to the invention Command COMMAND "CLEAR TEXT SHIPMENT FORM" and a DETAILED IDENTIFICATION parameter and an identifier CIN transmitted for the carrier "CARRIER". The IDENTIFICATION allows the requesting Basic device (postage scale, franking machine) one data record adapted to its display means (characters or text). Can in an auxiliary mode detailed explanations are available. According to the invention, an automatic adaptation to a different user interface hardware for the most diverse basic devices are provided.

• Zahl der Texte,
• Länge des Textes mit der Nummer 1
• ASCII-Zeichen für den Text zur Nummer 1
• Textendekennung,
• Länge des Textes mit der Nummer 2
• ASCII-Zeichen für den Text zur Nummer 2
• Textendekennung, usw.

FIG. 11 shows an additional data record for the information flow from the exchangeable postage computer to the franking machine. According to the invention, texts are transmitted in order to enable the setting or display of shipping parameters and / or other transport-specific data. In addition to the data record components already mentioned and the identifier of the list type and the identifier of the carrier, the following information is transmitted:

• Number of texts,
• Length of the text with the number 1
• ASCII characters for the text to number 1
• Text end identifier,
• Length of the text with the number 2
• ASCII characters for the text to number 2
• Text recognition, etc.

With the display unit of the base unit, for example the franking machine, also one Representation take place, which in the menu accordingly correctly classified, a choice between additional setting data or additional parameters allows. An adaptable tree structure is required the menu branches of a flexible User interface, which for example under the title: Method and arrangement for data entry in a Franking machine, in the unpublished German application 195 49 305.2 was proposed.

Communication with those in Figures 10 and 11 data records shown in principle can be repeated take place in a row and is always advantageous if the base unit has a convenient user interface with a suitable for text display multi-line or graphic display.

In an advantageous embodiment variant can be provided that modified carrier-specific Parts of the printed image in the memory of the exchangeable postage computer module non-volatile storage and when needed to load into the franking machine. For security against manipulation becomes an encrypted checksum via the data of the carrier-specific printed image parts intended. On the franking imprint or printed image can then, for example, in a mail distribution center the carrier with whom the item of mail is recognized to be transported. For such a variant is of course a non-mechanical printing process especially for freely programmable prints suitable.

In a further embodiment variant, a Franking machine, which has a serial interface and a suitable interface communication program owns, for the automatic postage calculation be upgraded for one or more carriers. Also a basic machine, which in the non-volatile Save the country-specific carrier by default, especially the public mail carrier, such as contains for example Deutsche Post AG loaded, can still be upgraded. Additional carriers can now be plugged in using the invention and interchangeable interchangeable postage calculator module be selected in addition to the mail piece according to the invention optionally by another carrier to be transported if this is cheaper.

The main advantage is the lack of any Limitation for postage calculation with simultaneous Retrofittability to be viewed by the customer. The postage calculation can also be carried out if they are completely new or different is carried out which the carrier in the Determines the future.

With the increasing liberalization of postal delivery mail processing systems become interesting for customers, with which it is possible between the offers various competing carriers that for to select it optimally. That presupposes that the data center or service facility of the Franking machine manufacturer or the carrier the Customer information is available for this selection can put. The franking machine is for billing with the same set of desired carriers like the interchangeable postage calculation module.

On the one hand, when the Basic device or the franking machine a preselection a group of carriers, like this one in the interchangeable postage calculation module is loaded and from which the desired carrier subsequently can be selected. Every carrier is one unique identifier assigned to CIN. An inventive On the other hand, routine in the franking machine ensures automatically for a match with others current carrier-related data, which in the Base machine, for example the franking machine, for CIN assigned are stored. Such additional For example, data creates a carrier-specific one Print image and enable a country-specific Billing in the franking machine. Any mismatch is displayed as an error message.

In a further development of the invention, an automatic Update routine for saved rate table data performed in the franking machine, whereby Appropriate means are provided so that the Franking machine with a data center in Communication connection can occur. Possibly rate table data is reloaded and then to Postage fee module in the exchangeable postage calculator module 50 transmitted. The exchangeable postage calculator module 50 is only exchanged in this embodiment, if at least one from the set of carriers in future one postage value after another basic calculation structure can be calculated.

A location-specific initialization of the franking machine takes place automatically every time it is switched on or manually. The latter input option exists after switching on in a sub-step Initialization, by entering the zip code zip code in the franking machine.

The ability to postage for a particular It is basically the purpose to determine the carrier determined by a franking machine, Mail items for this one selected carrier free. If the corresponding tariff or desired service in the postage computer module 50 not is available for some of the carriers automatic postage determination not possible. If the corresponding tariff or the desired service is not available in the postage computer module 50, answers the postage computer module 50 with an error message.

Conversely, the desired one on the part of the Postage calculator module 50 possible services from the Determination of the basic device from or is the Franking machine for certain types of franking or not suitable for printing on a piece of mail this is also ascertained and displayed or be signaled, especially in response to a corresponding input by an input means of User interface hardware (keyboard).

The invention is not based on the present embodiment limited, because obviously more other arrangements or executions of the method can be developed or used by the Starting from the same basic idea of the invention enclosed claims are included.

Claims (13)

1. An exchangeable postage calculator module that can be exchanged by the customer or plugged into a basis unit (40, 60i, 70) and includes an internal processing unit and a non-volatile memory for a postage calculation program and for postage rates table data, said exchangeable postage calculator module (50) being programmed for:

   supplying data of at least one forwarder from the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) to the display change in the basis unit (40, 60i, 70) due to user entries made with regard to service requirements on a forwarder and for processing the supplied data in the basis unit (40, 60i, 70);

   receiving weight data and shipping data for a postal item;

   calculating the postage vale on the basis of the postage rates table data and a calculation structure of the desired forwarder in the exchangeable postage calculator module (50); and

   supplying of data including the postage value of at least one forwarder from the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) for the processing of the supplied data in the basis unit (40, 60i, 70).
2. An exchangeable postage calculator module according to Claim 1, characterised in that the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) has at least one serial interface (52, 58); that several devices that are action-related with one another, such as a franking machine (40), scales (60) or a personal computer (70), are connected via interface; and that the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) containing the postage rates and calculation module is connected to any one of above-mentioned devices acting a basis unit.
3. An exchangeable postage calculator module according to Claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) is plugged with its serial interface (52) into the serial interface (62) of the postage scales (60i).
4. An exchangeable postage calculator module according to Claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) is plugged with it serial interface (52) into the serial interface (42) of the franking machine (40).
5. An exchangeable postage calculator module according to Claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) has a second serial interface (58) and is connected via interface between two of the above-mentioned devices (40 and 60 or 60i or 70).
6. An exchangeable postage calculator module according to one of the Claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) has a respective adapter function with protocol conversion.
7. An exchangeable postage calculator module according to one of the Claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) is equipped with a single-chip computer (53) on a board (56) that is connected with the serial interface (52).
8. An exchangeable postage calculator module according to Claim 7, characterised in that the postage calculator of the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) is designed in a copy-protected manner as an OTP processor, i.e. a ONE-TIME PROGRAMMABLE processor, having an internal volatile working memory iRAM and internal non-volatile memory iROM or iEROM and/or E²PROM.
9. An exchangeable postage calculator module according to one of the Claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) is equipped with a processing unit CPU (54), a non-volatile memory (57) and an additional component (55), wherein said additional component (55) can include a timing generation module and comprise further components required for the operation of the serial interface.
10. A method for the data transmission between a postage calculator module (50) and a basis unit (40, 60i, 70), comprising the following subsequent steps:

    Step (600), selection of a serial interface with the exchangeable postage calculator module (50);

    Step (610), transmission of data for a postal item including weight data and receipt of weight data by the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) that includes a postage rates and calculation module and is connected to any one of the above-mentioned basis units (40, 60i, 70) or between two of the above-mentioned basis units (40, 60i, 70);

    Step (620), transmission of the shipping data to the exchangeable postage calculator module (50), wherein said shipping data comprise the kind of shipping and the form of shipping and can include further data;

    Step (630), calculation of the postage value in the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) according to the current rate based on the postage rates table data and the calculation structure of the desired forwarder in the exchangeable postage calculator module; and

    Step (640), transmission of postage value, shipping data and additional data to one of the above-mentioned basis units (40, 60i, 70).
11. A method according to claim 10, characterised in that step (620) for the transmission of the shipping data is preceded by the supply of data of at least one forwarder from the exchangeable postage calculator module (50) to the display change in the basis unit.
12. A method according to claims 10 and 11, characterised in that, as a consequence of entries made in the basis unit with regard to service requirements on the forwarder and/or for the processing of the supplied data, there is triggered step (620) for the transmission of the shipping data to the exchangeable postage calculator module (50).
13. A method according to claims 10 to 12, characterised in that the transmission in step (640) is connected with a supply of data of at least one forwarder including the postage value from the exchangeable postage calculator module for a forwarder-related processing of the supplied data in the basis unit.

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